Dean Creek Elk Viewing Area
Facility · Oregon ·
Managed by the Bureau of Land Management
Umpqua River (Eligible - Recreational) · Open Access
- 8 ft
- Elevation
The Bureau of Land Management maintains a series of pastures along Oregon Highway 38 and the Umpqua River that are a year-round residence for a herd of 60-100 Roosevelt elk. Elk are visible almost every day of the year! A main viewing area, with an interpretive kiosk and restrooms, offers visitors the chance to learn about the elk and the site’s history. Several pull-outs along the three miles of Highway 38 that border the viewing area offer excellent photo opportunities. Dean Creek is also a popular bird watching area, serving as a stop along the coastal migration route.
Know Before You Go
- Open YEAR ROUND.
- Overnight camping is NOT ALLOWED.
- Universal Access restrooms: flush and vault restrooms are available.
Point of Interest
A full-grown bull elk can weigh over 1,000 pounds. They are strong, wild animals. Keep your distance and stay behind the fenced areas. Please do not feed the wildlife.
Getting there
The Elk Viewing Area is located three miles east of Reedsport, Oregon on Highway 38.
43.69535, -124.03839 · 43°41'43.3"N 124°2'18.2"W
Typical weather
Typically 71°F in Sep, down to 53°F in Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High °F | 54 | 55 | 56 | 59 | 63 | 66 | 70 | 70 | 71 | 65 | 58 | 53 |
| Low °F | 39 | 39 | 40 | 42 | 46 | 49 | 52 | 52 | 50 | 46 | 42 | 39 |
| Precip in | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
1991–2020 averages from the nearest NOAA station, 7 mi away — not measured at the facility itself, and elevation can make a real difference over that distance.
Map
Fees and stay limits
No Fees
From Recreation.gov, which is not always current. The operator's own page is the authority on what you will be charged.
More photos
Member photos
Common questions about Dean Creek Elk Viewing Area
- Can you reserve a site at Dean Creek Elk Viewing Area?
- No. Dean Creek Elk Viewing Area is not reservable through Recreation.gov, so sites are first-come, first-served or booked elsewhere.
Camping near Dean Creek Elk Viewing Area
- Tahkenitch Campground 8.9 mi · Campground · we watch it
- Tahkenitch Landing 9 mi · Campground · we watch it
- Umpqua Sand Camping 9.7 mi · Campground · we watch it
- Eel Creek Campground 10.5 mi · Campground · we watch it
- Spinreel 12 mi · Campground · we watch it
- Loon Lake Recreation Site 12 mi · Campground · we watch it
- Spinreel Sand Camping 12 mi · Campground · we watch it
- Carter Lake 12.4 mi · Campground · we watch it
- Hinsdale Garden 1.1 mi · Facility
- Tahkenitch Area 8.6 mi · Facility
- Umpqua Beach #2 Day Use /OHV Staging Area 9.1 mi · Facility
- Umpqua Beach #3 Day Use /OHV Staging Area 9.6 mi · Facility
Contact
- Phone 541-756-0100
- Email blm_or_cb_mail@blm.gov
- Info Recreation.gov
Recreation.gov last updated this record on 2026-05-18.
Facility information and photographs from Recreation.gov (RIDB). SpotOpened is not affiliated with Recreation.gov or any federal agency.
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